Foreign Minister Sugiono: We Build A Prosperous, Stable And Peaceful Indo-Pacific

Foreign Minister Sugiono while attending the ASEAN - New Zealand Commercial Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. (Source: Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

JAKARTA - Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia Sugiono is pushing for an increase in ASEAN's relations with New Zealand to build a better future for future generations.

This was said by Foreign Minister Sugiono when delivering Indonesia's national statement on behalf of President Prabowo Subianto in "ASEAN - New Zealand Commercial Summit" which was attended by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Tuesday.

At the summit marking the 50th anniversary of the partnership between the two sides, Foreign Minister Sugiono highlighted the foundation of ASEAN and New Zealand relations that have long been built based on mutual trust and values, and appreciated New Zealand's consistent support for ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP).

"At the same time, we realize that regional and global situations continue to grow. Therefore, we must remain resilient in innovating and maintaining future-minded partnerships," he said, launching a statement from the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on October 28.

Foreign Minister Sugiono further said that Indonesia has also reaffirmed its commitment to the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AANZFTA), as well as encouraging the acceleration of the ratification of the newly agreed amendment protocol.

Foreign Minister Sugiono also highlighted new opportunities in the development of the blue economy, including in the field of sustainable fisheries and marine-based renewable energy, as well as the importance of strengthening regional cooperation with the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF).

He added that Indonesia welcomes the adoption of Joint Vision Statement on a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which is a momentum to strengthen cooperation in four main pillars: peace, property, people and planets.

"Through increasingly close partnerships, ASEAN and New Zealand can jointly build a prosperous, stable and peaceful Indo-Pacific region for future generations," said Foreign Minister Sugiono.